Quaint. Diminutive village. One of the most endearing seaside towns of the West Coast. Feel of an 18th century European village. Carefully nurtured artistic ambience. A slice of almost English country refinement. Tidy and almost impossibly tasteful in its collection of landscaped cottages, elegant lodging and upscale restaurants. A manicured, prosperous, careful air.
FULL STORY
Since 1889, the Point Sur Light Station has been warning ships of the hazards along its picturesque but perilous section of the Big Sur coast. For 85 years, lighthouse keepers staffed the station 24 hours a day, sounding a fog signal and shining a beacon that was visible for 23 nautical miles. FULL STORY
Tucked amid the modern houses on Carmel Point is a timeless treasure - poet Robinson Jeffers' Tor House and Hawk Tower. If you are a fan of Jeffers' poetry, a tour of the home and tower and the stunning setting will quickly tell you what inspired him. If you aren't familiar with his work, a visit will inspire you to dive in. FULL STORY
The Carmel Mission was the favorite of founder Father Junipero Serra and he is buried there.
Where: 3080 Rio Road, Carmel
Information: (831) 624-1271
www.carmelmission.org
Beverly Hills has Rodeo Drive. New York has Fifth Avenue. And Carmel has Ocean Avenue, with its mix of art, clothing, kitsch and more.
Where: Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea
Information:Carmel Chamber of Commerce, San Carlos between 5th and 6th
(831) 624-2522
www.carmelcalifornia.org
The unexpected rewards for early risers and beach walkers who share the water and sometimes the beach with otters, seals, dolphins and whales. Sue McCloud, Carmel Mayor
Lingering over a cup of coffee at the Ill Fornaio s octagon pavilion, pretending to read a newspaper but really eavesdropping on conversations. Belle Yang, local painter and writer
The many special city events that attract two-and four-legged visitors and young and old, including the Fourth of July celebration, the city s birthday party and parade and the lighting of the holiday tree. Sue McCloud, Carmel Mayor
The hidden delights waiting to be discovered behind residential garden walls, downtown courtyards, the wrought iron ABC sign hanging from a south wall at the former Sunset Grammar School, and the pond in Devendorf Park with its hidden dragon and crocodile.
